School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics

Mathematics (B.S.)

Mathematics is both a profession and an indispensable tool for many types of work. As a tool, mathematics is a universal language that has been crucial in formulating and expressing ideas not only in science and engineering, but also in many other areas such as business and the social sciences. As probably the oldest and most basic science, it provides the key to understanding the major technological achievements of our time.

Of equal importance, knowledge of mathematics may help provide a student with the type of uncompromising and clear-sighted thinking useful in considering the problems of many other disciplines. The Mathematics degree program encompasses mathematics, statistics, and applied mathematics.

Applied mathematics and statistics continue to enjoy a rapid growth. Students have the opportunity of applying their expertise to any of a number of fields of application. For the student to be more effective in such applications, Mathematics also offers degree programs allowing additional emphasis in the areas of actuarial science, computer science, electrical engineering, and management.

Those interested in obtaining both a B.S. in Mathematics and Teacher Certification in the state of Texas should consult the UT Dallas Teacher Development Center or the UTeach office for specific requirements as soon as possible after formal admission to the University. See the Teacher Education Certification Program section of the catalog for additional information.

The Mathematics degree program also prepares students for graduate studies. An accelerated B.S./M.S. Fast Track program is available which provides the opportunity for undergraduate students to satisfy some of the requirements of the master's degree while they are completing the bachelor's degree in Mathematics.

The Program in Mathematics

Students seeking a degree in Mathematics may specialize in Mathematics, Statistics, or Applied Mathematics, and receive a B.S. degree. Each specialization allows some flexibility in electives so that students can better adapt their degree plans to their educational goals.

Mathematics Specialization: For students interested in a career in mathematics and for students interested in continuing on to graduate work in mathematics, applied mathematics, math education, and related areas.

Statistics Specialization: For students interested in probability and statistical models and their use in data analysis and decision-making and for students interested in continuing on to graduate work in statistics, biostatistics, actuarial science, and other statistics related areas.

Applied Mathematics Specialization: For students interested in mathematics for the purpose of using it broadly in various areas of application and for students interested in continuing on to graduate work in applied mathematics and related areas.

The UTeach option may be added to the BS degree in Mathematics. UTeach Dallas Option degree plans are streamlined to allow students to complete both a rigorous Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree and all course work for middle or high school teacher certification in four years. Teaching Option degrees require deep content knowledge combined with courses grounded in the latest research on math and science education. While most graduates go on to classroom teaching, UTeach alums are also prepared to enter graduate school and to work in discipline related industry.

Bachelor of Science in Mathematics

Degree Requirements (120 hours)

All majors with specialization in either Mathematics or Statistics are strongly urged to meet with assigned departmental advisors every semester.

III. Elective Requirements: 30 hours

Advanced Electives (6 hours)

All students are required to take at least six hours of advanced electives outside their major field of study. These must be either upper-division classes or lower-division classes that have prerequisites.

Free Electives (24 hours)

Both lower- and upper-division courses may count as electives, but the student must complete at least 51 hours of upper-division credit to qualify for graduation.

BS in Actuarial Sciences

The department offers a BS in Actuarial Sciences (see the program within this catalog for additional information).

Mathematics or Statistics with Computer Science Emphasis

Applied Mathematics Specialization or Statistics Specialization together with following courses:

All students are required to take at least six hours of advanced electives outside their major field of study. These must be either upper-division classes or lower-division classes that have prerequisites. UTeach courses can fulfill this requirement.

Both lower- and upper-division courses may count as electives, but the student must complete at least 51 hours of upper-division credit to qualify for graduation.

Minor in Mathematics

Students not majoring in Mathematics or Statisticsmay obtain a minor in Mathematics or Statistics by satisfying the following requirements: 18 credit hours of mathematics or statistics, 12 hours of which must be chosen from the following courses:

Mathematics Minor: MATH 3310, MATH 4334 and two more upper-division mathematics courses that satisfy degree requirements by students in Mathematics.

Statistics Minor: STAT 4351, STAT 4352 and two more upper-division mathematics courses that satisfy degree requirements by students in Statistics.

Fast Track Baccalaureate/Master's Degrees

For students interested in pursuing graduate studies in Mathematics, the Mathematics Department offers an accelerated B.S. / M.S. Fast Track that involves taking graduate courses instead of several advanced undergraduate courses. Acceptance into the Fast Track is based on the student's attaining a GPA of at least 3.200 in all mathematics classes and being within 30 hours of graduation. Fast Track students may, during their senior year, take 15 graduate hours that may be used to complete the baccalaureate degree. After admission to the graduate program, these 15 graduate hours may also satisfy requirements for the master's degree. Fast Track programs are offered in mathematics with specializations in applied mathematics and statistics.

1. Curriculum Requirements can be fulfilled by other approved courses from accredited institutions of higher education. The courses listed in parentheses are recommended as the most efficient way to satisfy both Core Curriculum and Major Requirements at UT Dallas.

2. A Major course requirement that also fulfills a Core Curriculum requirement. If hours are counted in the Core Curriculum, students must complete additional coursework to meet the minimum requirements for graduation. Course selection assistance is available from the undergraduate advisor.

3. Two hours of Calculus are counted as electives; six hours are counted in Core Curriculum.

4. Indicates a prerequisite class to be completed before enrolling in upper-division classes.

5. MATH 2417 and 2419 requirements can be fulfilled by completing MATH 2413, 2414, and 2415.

6. Approval of Mathematics department advisor required.

7. Another MATH course, i.e. MATH 3380, may be substituted if MATH 3321 is not offered.